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When summer evenings beckon, the thought of light, flavorful meals feels like a breath of fresh air. That’s exactly how I felt the day I stumbled upon the recipe for Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls. With the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables and the aromatic allure of lemongrass, these rolls have become my go-to dish for gatherings—and they never fail to impress. Picture this: you take a bite, and the combination of tender, caramelized chicken wrapped in a slightly chewy rice paper dances on your palate, balanced perfectly by a creamy, homemade peanut dipping sauce.

Whether you’re seeking a fun weekend project, a healthy weeknight dinner, or a showstopper for your next potluck, these rolls fit the bill. Plus, they’re gluten-free and bursting with fresh flavors, making them a versatile choice for everyone at the table. So grab your ingredients, and let’s roll up something delicious that’s sure to become a favorite!

Why are Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls irresistible?

Freshness defined: Each roll is packed with vibrant vegetables and zesty lemongrass chicken, offering a refreshing burst in every bite.
Customized flavors: You can easily adjust ingredients to suit your palate, making it a delightful canvas for your culinary creativity.
Perfect for gatherings: These rolls are visually stunning and serve as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or light meal everyone will love.
Quick and easy: With minimal prep work and straightforward assembly, you’ll have these delicious rolls ready in no time.
Ready for a sneak peek into this delightful dish? Explore more with our guide on creative serving suggestions!

Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls Ingredients

• Get ready for a taste sensation!

For the Filling

Lemongrass marinated chicken – 350g / 12oz of boneless chicken thighs that caramelize beautifully and provide a savory base.
Fish sauce – 1.5 tbsp adds that essential umami flavor; for a vegetarian twist, use soy sauce instead.
Brown sugar – 2 tbsp balances the savory notes; adjust to your taste if you prefer more or less sweetness.
Lemongrass – 1 tbsp, finely grated, offers a bright and aromatic kick—fresh is best but paste or frozen works too.
Lime juice – 1 tbsp brings acidity that brightens every component; rice vinegar can be used if you’re out of lime.
Garlic – 1 clove, finely grated, adds an aromatic base layer of flavor.
Canola oil – 1 tbsp for cooking; provides an even heat for searing the chicken.
Rice paper sheets – 10 sheets, ~22cm/8.5”; these are your delightful wrappers—easily found at the grocery store.
Dried vermicelli noodles – 70g / 2.5 oz adds texture and bulk; feel free to swap in glass noodles if preferred.
Green and red cabbage – 1 cup each, finely sliced for color and crunch; any crisp lettuce can substitute in a pinch.
Carrot – 1, peeled and julienned, adds a sweet crunch; cucumbers can work as a lighter alternative.
Coriander/Cilantro leaves – 1/4 cup for that fresh herbaceous note; try using Thai basil or extra mint if you prefer.
Small mint leaves – 3/4 cup, bringing a refreshing herbal lift; larger leaves can be torn for more rustic rolls.

For the Peanut Dipping Sauce

Natural peanut butter – 1.5 tbsp, smooth; this is your creamy base that ties all the flavors together.
Hoisin sauce – 2 tbsp provides sweetness and depth; it’s perfect for that authentic Vietnamese flair.
White vinegar – 1 tbsp (or 1/2 tbsp lime juice) balances the sauce’s sweetness with acidity.
Milk – 1/4 – 1/3 cup (or water) adjusts the sauce’s consistency based on your preference.
Small garlic clove – 1, finely grated for added flavor complexity.
Brown sugar – 2 tsp ensures the sauce is perfectly sweetened to complement your rolls.
Cooking salt/Kosher salt – 1/8 tsp to balance and enhance all the flavors.
Crushed chili/Sambal oelek (optional) – 1/2 tsp adds a pinch of heat to kick up the flavor profile.

Now you’re all set to gather these fresh ingredients for your Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls!

How to Make Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls

Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine the lemongrass, fish sauce, brown sugar, garlic, lime juice, and a touch of canola oil. Coat the finely sliced chicken thighs in this marinade and let them sit for 15 minutes to absorb those vibrant flavors.
Prepare Noodles: Soak the dried vermicelli noodles in a bowl of hot water for about 2 minutes, then drain and let them cool. This will ensure they remain tender, making them easy to wrap later.
Make Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the natural peanut butter, hoisin sauce, white vinegar, and grated garlic. Gradually add milk until you achieve your desired consistency for a creamy, luscious peanut sauce.
Cook Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of canola oil in a pan over high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown, approximately 3 minutes. Once cooked, spread the chicken out to cool slightly for easier handling.
Prepare Rice Paper: Fill a large bowl with warm water. Dip each rice paper sheet for about 2 seconds, just until soft. Place the smooth side down on a clean cutting board, ready for filling.
Assemble Rolls: Begin layering your ingredients just beneath the center of the rice paper. Start with a few small mint leaves, add the lemongrass chicken, then follow with the colorful veggies and a small handful of vermicelli noodles.
Roll Up: Fold the bottom of the rice paper over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly but gently to seal everything inside. This will keep those delicious flavors together!
Serve: Arrange your beautiful rolls on a serving plate and serve them alongside the creamy peanut dipping sauce for dipping.

Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls Variations

Enjoy the freedom to customize your rolls with these delightful twists!

Shrimp Substitute: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp for a seafood-inspired option that’s just as flavorful.
Tofu Twist: For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with marinated and pan-fried tofu—still tasty and satisfying!
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper to your filling for an extra heat boost.
Herb Explosion: Mix in different herbs like dill or basil for unexpected layers of flavor—fresh herbs elevate every bite.
Crunch Factor: Include thinly sliced bell peppers or radishes for added crunch and vibrant color.
Noodle Swap: Replace dried vermicelli with zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist that still delivers on flavor.
Creamy Avocado: Add slices of ripe avocado for natural creaminess and a rich texture that complements the fresh ingredients.
Peanutless Sauce: For those avoiding nuts, use a sunflower seed butter in your dipping sauce for a similar texture without the peanuts.

Embrace your culinary creativity and make these rice paper rolls truly your own!

Expert Tips for Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls

Perfectly Slice Chicken: Make sure to slice your chicken thighs thinly. This ensures even caramelization and a tender bite in your Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls.
Soak Noodles Properly: Don’t soak the vermicelli noodles for too long—2 minutes is ideal. Over-soaking can make them too mushy and hard to handle later.
Prep Your Ingredients: Have all your ingredients ready before you start assembling. This will make the rolling process smoother and help avoid messy spills.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: While cooking the chicken, always ensure the pan isn’t overcrowded. This prevents steaming and helps achieve that beautiful golden color.
Keep Rolls Fresh: If making ahead of time, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent sticking.

Make Ahead Options

These Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those vibrant flavors to deepen. Additionally, you can prepare the fresh veggies and soak the vermicelli noodles up to 3 days ahead of time—just keep them stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and crunch. When you’re ready to assemble, simply dip the rice paper quickly in warm water, layer your fillings, and roll them up tightly. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality rolls with minimal effort on busy weeknights or for an impressive appetizer at gatherings!

What to Serve with Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls?

Elevate your gathering with delightful pairings that enhance the refreshing flavor of these vibrant rolls.

Coconut Rice: This mildly sweet rice complements the savory lemongrass chicken, providing a creamy texture that balances the crispness of the rolls.
Spicy Mango Salad: A tangy and zesty salad flavored with fresh herbs and lime elevates the dish, infusing a tropical twist that perfectly matches Vietnamese cuisine.
Fresh Spring Rolls: Add a colorful side of shrimp and vegetable spring rolls to your table; they mirror the vibrant flavors while offering an exciting texture contrast.
Sesame Noodle Salad: Nutty, chewy noodles tossed with sesame oil bring a delightful crunch and earthiness that balances the lightness of the rice paper rolls.
Thai Iced Tea: This creamy, sweet beverage offers a refreshing counterpoint to the savory rolls, making it a perfect drink choice for warm evenings.
Mango Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert with a fruity touch, offering a delightful coolness after the savory bites of lemongrass chicken.
Iced Green Tea: This simple, invigorating beverage provides a subtle floral flavor while cleansing the palate between bites.
Peanut Satay Skewers: These grilled skewers seasoned with spices create a harmonious continuation of flavors from the peanut dipping sauce, making for an irresistible side.
Carrot and Cucumber Sticks: Crunchy, fresh sticks add a refreshing raw element that echoes the veggies inside the rolls while being perfect for dipping.

How to Store and Freeze Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls

Room Temperature: These rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but if left at room temperature, they should be consumed within 1-2 hours to ensure optimal freshness and flavor.
Fridge: Store any leftover unwrapped ingredients separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. If you have assembled rolls, keep them wrapped in plastic or parchment paper and consume within 6 hours for the best texture.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze fully assembled rice paper rolls, as the texture may become unappetizing. However, you can freeze the marinated chicken separately for up to 2 months; simply thaw in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating: If you opt to save the chicken, sauté your thawed chicken in a hot pan until cooked through, then assemble freshly rolled Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls for a delicious meal.

Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless chicken thighs as they caramelize better due to their higher fat content, giving your Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls a richer flavor. However, you can substitute with chicken breast if preferred; just be sure to slice it thinly for even cooking.

How long do these rice paper rolls last in the fridge?
Very! If stored properly, assembled rice paper rolls can be kept in the fridge for up to 6 hours. Make sure they’re wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent them from sticking together. Any unwrapped ingredients can be stored in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze these rolls?
I often advise against freezing fully assembled rice paper rolls because the texture can suffer upon thawing. However, if you want to freeze the marinated chicken, you can do so for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before cooking, and then enjoy fresh rolls!

How should I select ripe vegetables for the rolls?
Look for bright, crisp vegetables with no dark spots or wilting. Freshness is key! Selecting vibrant cabbage and firm carrots will enhance the crunch factor in your Lemongrass Chicken Rice Paper Rolls. If you notice any signs of spoilage, like discoloration, it’s best to choose another option.

Can I make these rolls vegetarian or vegan?
Very much! You can replace the chicken with marinated tofu or grilled prawns for a non-meat protein option. Additionally, ensure that your sauces, like hoisin, are vegan-friendly, which can be easily found in most grocery stores.

What should I do if the rice paper keeps tearing?
No worries! If your rice paper tears, it might be too dry. Try dipping it for just a second longer, or give it a gentle press to help it soften. Also, make sure to roll the filling tightly but gently, which helps minimize tearing as you fold and roll.